The National Constitution Center’s purpose is to bring civic education to life for all ages. A multimedia display with live performances engages the whole family and daily programs make it fun. The original Constitution of the United States of America, the major attraction here, is only four pages long but has shaped the government and justice system of the country. Be prepared to delve into all the aspects of this important document, and how it relates to the government in-place today.
Located in historic downtown, the museum is just steps away from the Independence Hall. This was where the Constitution was first signed on September 17, 1787, by delegates from 12 of the 13 original states. By 1791, 10 amendments of the Constitution were ratified and became the Bill of Rights.
The National Constitution Center explains the finer detail of these historic events. It opened its doors on July 4, 2003, and includes a museum, national town hall and civic education headquarters. Head to the theater first to see Freedom Rising, a 17-minute show projected on to a 360-degree screen and narrated by a live actor. The short presentation packs in over 200 years of defining freedom — from colonial times, through the Civil War, to the present day.
Explore scale models of the three branches of national government: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court. Browse Civil War artifacts and view a rare public copy of the Constitution. Test your knowledge afterwards during the Giant Constitutional Board Game.
If you want to experience what justice means, don a robe and try ruling on key Supreme Court cases. Let your children reenact important moments in America’s quest for freedom and recite the presidential Oath of Office on a big screen. Before you leave, head to the Signer’s Hall to come face to face with the life-sized statues of the constitutional delegates who shaped the United States.
The National Constitution Center is located in the Independence Mall. It’s open every day of the week, but not on Sunday mornings. You can buy food in the Delegates Café. Check out the center’s website for temporary exhibitions and programs, as there is always something new to see.
